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Small

With no more than 350 students in an elementary school and 500 in a high school, small schools foster environments in which parents, teachers, and students get to know one another well. Educational programs focus on: environmental studies, service learning, technology, peace, entrepreneurship, leadership, international studies, the arts, construction and Socratic dialogue.

Overview

Curriculum

Smaller numbers of students, a more intimate and personalized learning environment, and a cohesive vision among teachers characterize small schools.

Small schools are a vehicle for teachers, students, parents and other school community members to implement strategies that they know will benefit the students. Small size alone does not make small schools successful. Instead, the small size serves as a platform on which other important elements of successful schools can best flourish. For example, the manageable size of a small school allows the faculty to meet frequently to discuss the day-to-day operations of the school, as well as to design curriculum, discuss student progress and meet with parents and community members.

Teachers with a shared pedagogical or thematic vision choose to work together to design the school's educational program.

Enrollment requirements

Acceptance criteria

Priority is given for students living in boundaries. Applicants outside of boundaries can apply if space is available. (Some schools have different admissions requirements; please see the individual school’s profile for more information.)

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Chicago Public Schools is the third largest school district in the United States with more than 600 schools and serves 361,000 children. Our vision is that every student in every neighborhood will be engaged in a rigorous, well-rounded instructional program and will graduate prepared for success in college, career and life.